The lights in the dark theater come on while the credits roll up the large screen and Jihan turns her head to see Zoa stretching. “Did you fall asleep?”
“Of course not,” says the red-haired girl. “That was kinda fun.”
“Yeah. Not bad.” Jihan takes her coat and stands up. “I’m hungry.”
“Then let’s get that dinner.” Zoa quickly gets to her feet as well, grabbing her jacket and bag as she follows Jihan out of the theater.
They’ve decided to watch the movie first and have dinner later because neither of them was hungry when they met up earlier that night due to nerves and the excitement for their first real date.
Luckily, it’s been quite smooth and comfortable so far, both of them now considerably more relaxed and less shy around each other after realizing that they feel the same way towards one another.
The meal ends too quickly for their liking even after they sit there talking for another hour.
“Coffee?” offers Zoa as they leave the restaurant. “The night’s still young.”
“Sure,” replies Jihan with a smile. She, too, wants to spend more time with Zoa.
Unfortunately, the night has to come to an end sooner or later and it does so when the barista regretfully informs them that the coffee shop’s closing.
So Zoa and Jihan walk out, heading towards Zoa's parked car through the lively streets filled with people enjoying the upcoming weekend.
They’re still a few blocks away from the car when Jihan feels something brushing against her hand—a hesitant touch on her skin—and looks down just in time to see Zoa wrapping her fingers around her hand.
She smiles to herself and adjusts her hand to hold Zoa's properly, not letting go until they reach the car.
“I’ll walk you up,” Zoa says as she parks near Jihan's apartment building half an hour later.
They remain quiet during the short walk up until they arrive at her door.
“Do you want to come in?” asks Jihan.
“I do but I think it’s best if I go. It’s been a long day. You should rest.”
“You should stop worrying about me. I’ll tell you when I’m tired.”
“I’m just looking out for you,” says Zoa calmly.
“I know and I’m grateful for that but I’m fine, really.”
“It’s late, Jihan. It’s better if I go.”
“Okay then,” Jihan gives in, knowing that she shouldn’t push Zoa. “Thanks for tonight. I had fun.”
“Me too,” replies Zoa. “By the way, I still owe you something.”
“Huh? You don’t owe me any-…” Jihan's words are cut short when a kiss lands on her cheek, turning her face red in an instant.
“Now we’re even,” Zoa says with a shy grin. “Sorry it took me so long. Sleep well, okay? I’ll see you.” She steps back, waves goodbye and walks away towards the elevator with a huge smile on her face.
====
“She kissed you?!?!” shouts Jiyoon, startling Jihan who pulls the phone away from her ear by reflex.
“Yah! She only kissed my cheek!” argues the brunette even though she’s smiling at the memory of the kiss.
“Doesn’t matter! She kissed you on your first date! That’s awesome!” exclaims the tall woman. “You’re grinning like an idiot now, aren’t you?”
